UK AIRPORT RUNWAY CLOSURE SPARKS CHAOS, PASSENGERS STRANDED AND FLIGHTS SUSPENDED

Leeds Bradford Airport was forced to close its runway unexpectedly, leaving passengers 'stranded without crucial information'. The airport announced that emergency repairs were being undertaken, suspending flights until at least 7 pm.

Passengers expressed their frustration on social media platforms about the lack of communication from officials and the absence of travel agency representatives. The airport issued a statement saying, "The runway is currently closed due to emergency runway repairs. We expect to open no earlier than 19:00hrs today. Please contact your airline for further travel advice. ".

Flight disruptions may continue through the evening and residual disruptions are possible even after the runway repairs are completed as airlines work to clear passenger backlogs. Annoyed travellers vented their frustrations on social media. Jamie remarked, "Typical when I fly LeedsBradfordAirport."

Dan criticised the lack of organisation, commenting, "Yet no communication of any info within the departures area.", reports Bristol Live. Jamie also reported, "Leeds Bradford airport runway shut nothing in or out. Not a single @TUIUK rep to be seen! ! ! ! ! " Nicola gave sympathy for the staff, stating, "Poor Jet2 staff at Leeds Bradford have no idea what's going on. Airport's own website says airport closed until 7pm but the staff in the departure lounge haven't been told a thing. @jet2tweets don't throw them to the wolves."

George Lionel voiced his frustration, saying: "We're waiting for our bags at the carousel. Has someone forgotten about them." Responding to the complaints, the airport advised: "Please contact your airline for travel advice. Our teams are working tirelessly to make repairs and return to normal operations."

Jet2, the operator, issued a statement saying: "We have been made aware of a runway closure affecting Leeds Bradford Airport, this is due to emergency repairs that are urgently required. This is an unscheduled change, so we're doing everything we can to minimise any disruption."

They added: "Inbound flights that have been diverted to another of our UK airports, to complete your journey, we're in the process of arranging coach transfers to Leeds Bradford Airport. Due to this being unscheduled, there may be a short delay in sourcing transport however, if you need more information, our team of Customer Helpers are happy to help."

The statement continued: "For flights departing Leeds Bradford this afternoon, we will provide further updates here soon. Please ensure your details are up to date in Manage My Booking as we will also be in touch via SMS and email to affected customers. We would like to apologise for the inconvenience, that is unfortunately outside of our control."

2024-07-05T15:21:40Z dg43tfdfdgfd